The induction of an angiogenic response in corneal myofibroblasts by platelet-activating factor (PAF).

Purpose: Although the exact mechanisms underlying corneal neovascularization remain unclear, cytokines and growth factors play an important role in their development. We have shown previously that the inflammatory mediator platelet-activating factor (PAF) is a potent inducer of corneal neovascularization in vivo. In this study, we investigate the role of stromal myofibroblasts in neovascularization and the effect of PAF on this process.

Methods: Myofibroblasts were obtained from rabbit corneal keratocytes and identified with anti-α-SMA antibody. Cells were treated with PAF (100 nM) for 24 hr. In some experiments, cells were pre-treated with the PAF antagonist LAU-0901 (150 nM). Expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and thrombospondin-1 (TSP-1) was examined by immunofluorescence and immunoblotting. To study the effect of myofibroblasts on vessel formation in vitro, Vybrant(®) CM-DiI labeled human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) were cultured on myofibroblasts in a thin layer of collagen gel. CD31 was used as the cell marker of HUVEC.

Results: VEGF and TSP-1 were not detectable in keratocytes, but they were positively stained in myofibroblasts. PAF induced a significant increase in VEGF expression and a decrease in TSP-1 expression. These changes were inhibited in the presence of LAU-0901. HUVECs co-cultured with corneal myofibroblasts formed a typical structure of vessel-like tubes within 1 week. The addition of PAF to the medium increased HUVEC-induced vessel-like tube formation, which was abolished by LAU-0901. Addition of anti-VEGF antibody to the medium completely prevented the formation of vessel-like tubes.

Conclusion: We provide evidence for the role of stromal myofibroblasts in the corneal neovascularization process. By enhancing VEGF production and decreasing TSP-1 production in myofibroblasts, PAF augments the angiogenic response. The PAF antagonist LAU-0901 could represent a new therapeutic venue for inhibiting corneal neovascularization.